Our Story

Having entered the system at age of 13, he spent more than 12 years in custody. Whilst in prison Mifta found that there were many who had shared similar experiences to his own and wanted to bring about positive change.

Upon his release from custody, he worked at Charlton Athletic Community Trust as a football coach and tutor, supporting disengaged young people in and around the criminal justice system. Through this work, he noticed that many young people felt the same as he had. Trapped, wanting to create change for themselves and their community but not knowing how. These young people lacked a platform to collaborate and contribute to society through their own lived experiences.

He realised that those with experience of the criminal justice system are all on the same journey, with something unique to give society. The ability to support others who are on a similar journey to create social value and wider change for the criminal justice system.

This is how Youth Ink was formed. If young people are given legitimate first chances, then their outcomes will inevitably improve.